Top Restaurants in Mexico That Serve Iconic Tacos, Tamales, and Salsa!

Mexico’s culinary scene reflects its rich cultural heritage, offering everything from street food taquerias to world-class fine dining establishments. The country’s geography and regional traditions have created a range of flavors that continue to influence international cuisine while maintaining deep roots in pre-Hispanic cooking techniques and ingredients.

This comprehensive guide explores the best restaurants in Mexico, showcasing luxury dining destinations, affordable eateries, romantic spots, and beachfront venues across the country.

Restaurant	Avg Cost (MXN / INR)	Speciality Dish
Pujol	3,495 MXN / ₹17,300	Scallop Taco with Avocado and Shiso
Quintonil	4,100 MXN / ₹20,300	King Crab in Pipian Verde
Sud 777	600–1,400 MXN / ₹3,000–₹6,900	Sweet Potato Lollipops
Rosetta	700–1,000 MXN / ₹3,400–₹4,900	Veal Sweetbreads with Yogurt and Plum
Balcón del Zócalo	1,000–2,500 MXN / ₹4,900–₹12,200	Duck Tacos with Mole Negro
El Cardenal	300–500 MXN / ₹1,500–₹2,400	Gorditas Hidalguenses
Los Danzantes Coyoacán	500–900 MXN / ₹2,400–₹4,400	Duck Magret with Roselle Mole
Lardo	600–1,200 MXN / ₹3,000–₹5,900	Ricotta Hotcakes with Berries (Brunch)[own knowledge]
El Califa	200–400 MXN / ₹1,000–₹2,000	Costra de Queso Taco
Los Cocuyos	50–150 MXN / ₹250–₹750	Tacos de Suadero (Beef Brisket)
Churrería El Moro	100–200 MXN / ₹500–₹1,000	Churros with Condensed Milk Dip
Dawat	150–250 MXN / ₹750–₹1,250	Tandoori Chicken
Tandoor	400–600 MXN / ₹2,000–₹3,000	Aloo Gobi (Potatoes and Cauliflower in Curry Sauce)
Alas Blancas	400–500 MXN / ₹2,000–₹2,500	Coconut Shrimp Stuffed with Cream Cheese
Barracuda	350–700 MXN / ₹1,700–₹3,400	Grilled Red Snapper (Pescado Zarandeado)
Saffron at Banyan Tree	1,000–1,500 MXN / ₹4,900–₹7,400	Lamb Shank Rogan Josh
La Capital	400–700 MXN / ₹2,000–₹3,500	Pulpo a la Brasa (Grilled Octopus)
Blanco Colima	800–1,500 MXN / ₹3,900–₹7,400	Duck Confit with Mole
Contramar	800–1,500 MXN / ₹3,900–₹7,400	Grilled Octopus with Potatoes
Nido	1,000–1,800 MXN / ₹4,900–₹8,800	Uni (Sea Urchin) Ceviche

Please note: INR conversion at approx. 1 MXN = ₹4.95 (May 2025)

1. Pujol

Consistently ranked among the best restaurants in Mexico and the world, Pujol is Chef Enrique Olvera’s masterpiece. This luxury restaurant offers a contemporary take on traditional Mexican cuisine, with dishes that highlight indigenous ingredients and ancient cooking techniques in an elegant, minimalist setting.

• Google Rating: 4.5
• Location: Tennyson 133, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11570 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
• Theme: Contemporary Mexican
• Must-Try Dish: Mole Madre, Mole Nuevo (aged mole served alongside fresh mole), Baby Corn with Chicatana Ant Mayonnaise
• Price: Tasting menu from 3,495 MXN
• Timings: Monday-Saturday 1:30 PM – 9:30 PM
• Official Website: Pujol
• Social Media:@pujolrestaurant
• Suitable For: Gourmands, special occasions, fine dining enthusiasts

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2. Quintonil

Quintonil, led by Chef Jorge Vallejo and his wife Alejandra Flores, is one of the top-rated restaurants in Mexico, focusing on vegetables, herbs, and sustainable ingredients sourced from local producers. The restaurant offers sophisticated Mexican cuisine with creative presentations and bold flavors.

• Google Rating: 4.4
• Location: Av. Isaac Newton 55, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
• Theme: Modern Mexican with Focus on Vegetables
• Must-Try Dish: Charred Avocado Tartare, Crab Tostada with Habanero Mayonnaise, Seasonal Vegetables from Their Garden
• Price: Tasting menu from 4,100 MXN
• Timings: Monday-Saturday 1:00 PM – 12:00 AM (Closed Sunday)
• Official Website: Quintonil
• Social Media: @rest_quintonil
• Suitable For: Vegetable lovers, fine dining enthusiasts, sustainable cuisine supporters

3. Sud 777

Sud 777 showcases Chef Edgar Núñez’s innovative approach to Mexican cuisine. The restaurant integrates international techniques with local ingredients, offering a multi-faceted dining experience in an elegant, multi-level space with garden views in southern Mexico City.

• Google Rating: 4.6
• Location: Blvrd de la Luz 777, Jardines del Pedregal, Álvaro Obregón, 01900 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
• Theme: Contemporary Mexican with International Influences
• Must-Try Dish: Seasonal Vegetable Garden, Duck with Mole, Fresh Seafood Dishes
• Price: $$$$ (Tasting menu from 1,950 MXN)
• Timings: Monday-Saturday 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Sunday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Official Website:Sud 777
• Social Media: @sud777mx
• Suitable For: Foodies, special occasions, business dinners

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4. Rosetta

Rosetta is Chef Elena Reygadas’ acclaimed restaurant housed in a beautiful Porfiriato mansion in Roma Norte. The restaurant offers Italian-influenced Mexican cuisine with an emphasis on handmade pasta, fresh-baked bread, and seasonal ingredients that highlight the chef’s thoughtful approach to cooking.

• Google Rating: 4.6
• Location: Colima 166, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
• Theme: Italian-Mexican Fusion
• Must-Try Dish: Handmade Pasta with Seasonal Sauces, Fresh Bread Basket, Burrata with Local Vegetables
• Price: Average 1,200 MXN per person
• Timings: Monday-Saturday 1:00 PM – 5:30 PM, 6:30 AM – 11:00 PM (Closed on Sunday)
• Official Website:Rosetta
• Social Media: @restauranterosetta
• Suitable For: Romantic dinners, food enthusiasts, casual fine dining

5. Balcón del Zócalo

Balcón del Zócalo is one of the most spectacular rooftop restaurants in Mexico City, offering unparalleled views of the historic Zócalo square and Metropolitan Cathedral. The restaurant serves elevated Mexican cuisine with contemporary presentation in an elegant setting ideal for special occasions.

• Google Rating: 4.5
• Location: Av. 5 de Mayo 61, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
• Theme: Contemporary Mexican with Cathedral Views
• Must-Try Dish: Tableside Guacamole, Duck Carnitas, Mole Tasting, Chef’s Selection of Mexican Cheeses
• Price: Average 800 MXN per person
• Timings: Daily 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Official Website:Balcón del Zócalo
• Social Media:@balcondelzocalo
• Suitable For: Tourists, romantic dinners, special occasions, view seekers

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6. El Cardenal

El Cardenal is a beloved Mexico City institution that has been serving traditional Mexican breakfast and lunch since 1969. With several locations throughout the city, this famous restaurant offers authentic regional dishes prepared with high-quality ingredients and time-honored recipes.

• Google Rating: 4.6
• Location: C. de la Palma 23, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
• Theme: Traditional Mexican
• Must-Try Dish: Nata (Clotted Cream), Escamoles (Ant Eggs), Chilaquiles, Fresh Sweet Rolls
• Price: Average 400 MXN per person
• Timings: Monday-Sunday 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM
• Official Website:El Cardenal
• Social Media: @restaurante.elcardenal
• Suitable For: Breakfast enthusiasts, traditional cuisine lovers, families

7. Los Danzantes Coyoacán

Los Danzantes occupies a beautiful building overlooking Coyoacán’s main square, offering a blend of traditional and contemporary Mexican cuisine with a focus on mezcal and indigenous ingredients. The restaurant’s atmospheric setting and innovative dishes make it a favorite among both locals and tourists.

• Google Rating: 4.4
• Location: Parque Centenario 12, Coyoacán TNT, Coyoacán, 04000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
• Theme: Contemporary Mexican with Mezcal Focus
• Must-Try Dish: Duck Enchiladas with Mole, Grilled Octopus, Mezcal Tasting
• Price: $$$ (Average 600 MXN per person)
• Timings: Monday-Thursday 12:30 PM – 11:00 PM, Friday-Saturday 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM, Sunday 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Official Website: Los Danzantes
• Social Media: @losdanzantes
• Suitable For: Mezcal enthusiasts, casual dining, tourists exploring Coyoacán

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8. Lardo

Lardo is a trendy Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in Mexico City’s hip Condesa neighborhood. From the same team behind Rosetta, this casual yet sophisticated spot offers wood-fired dishes, house-cured meats, and fresh small plates that blend European techniques with local ingredients.

• Google Rating: 4.4
• Location: Agustín Melgar 6, Colonia Condesa, Cuauhtémoc, 06140 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
• Theme: Mediterranean-Mexican Fusion
• Must-Try Dish: Wood-Fired Bread with House-Made Spreads, Burrata with Local Honey, Roasted Half Chicken
• Price: Average 500 MXN per person
• Timings: Monday- Saturday 7:00 AM – 10:30 PM, Sunday 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
• Official Website:Lardo
• Social Media: @lardomexico
• Suitable For: Casual dining, brunches, friends gathering

9. El Califa

El Califa is one of the most affordable restaurants in Mexico City for quality tacos. This popular taquería chain offers a cleaner, more upscale environment than street stalls while maintaining authentic flavors, particularly excelling in tacos al pastor and arrachera (flank steak).

• Google Rating: 4.4
• Location: Altata 22, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc, 06170 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
• Theme: Upscale Taquería
• Must-Try Dish: Tacos al Pastor, Arrachera Tacos, Volcanes, House Salsas
• Price: Average 200 MXN per person
• Timings: Daily 12:00 PM – 4:00 AM
• Official Website:El Califa
• Social Media: @elcalifa_mx
• Suitable For: Taco enthusiasts, casual dining, late-night food

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10. Los Cocuyos

Los Cocuyos is a tiny, no-frills taco stand in Mexico City’s Centro Histórico that has gained cult status for its exceptional variety of meat fillings. This affordable restaurant in Mexico serves traditional tacos de guisado with slow-cooked meats, including some unusual cuts that showcase authentic Mexican street food at its best.

• Google Rating: 4.1
• Location: Simón Bolívar 59, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
• Theme: Traditional Taco Stand
• Must-Try Dish: Suadero (Brisket), Lengua (Tongue), Campechano (Mixed Meat) Tacos
• Price: Average 100 MXN per person
• Timings: Open 24 hours
• Official Website: No official website
• Social Media: Taquería Los Cocuyos
• Suitable For: Street food enthusiasts, budget travelers, authentic experience seekers

11. Churrería El Moro

A beloved Mexico City institution since 1935, Churrería El Moro specializes in churros and hot chocolate. This famous restaurant in Mexico has expanded from its original Centro Histórico location to stylish outposts across the city, serving crispy churros with various dipping sauces and thick, rich hot chocolate in multiple flavors.

• Google Rating: 4.5
• Location: Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas 42, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
• Theme: Traditional Churros and Chocolate
• Must-Try Dish: Churros with Chocolate Sauce, Mexican Hot Chocolate, Churro Ice Cream Sandwich
• Price: Average 120 MXN per person
• Timings: Open 24 hours
• Official Website:El Moro
• Social Media: @churreriaelmoro
• Suitable For: Dessert lovers, families, late-night snacking

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12. Dawat

Dawat is one of the most authentic Indian restaurants in Mexico City, serving traditional North Indian cuisine in a warm, elegantly decorated space. The restaurant offers a range of classic dishes prepared by experienced Indian chefs using imported spices and traditional cooking methods.

• Google Rating: 4.5
• Location: Av. Ejército Nacional Mexicano 676, Polanco, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11540 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
• Theme: Traditional North Indian
• Must-Try Dish: Butter Chicken, Lamb Biryani, Garlic Naan, Mixed Tandoori Platter
• Price: $$ (Average 450 MXN per person)
• Timings: Monday – Saturday 1:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Sunday 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM
• Official Website: Dawat
• Social Media: @dawatmexico
• Suitable For: Indian cuisine enthusiasts, vegetarians, spice lovers

13. Tandoor

Tandoor is one of Mexico City’s most established Indian restaurants, known for its elegant ambiance, attentive service, and a menu that celebrates the diversity of Indian cuisine. The restaurant offers a refined dining experience with classic North Indian dishes as well as regional specialties, all prepared with authentic spices and fresh ingredients.

• Google Rating: 4.4
• Location: Calle Copérnico 156, Nueva Anzures, Miguel Hidalgo, 11590 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
• Theme: Classic North Indian Cuisine
• Must-Try Dish: Shahi Paneer, Chicken Vindaloo, Garlic Naan, Mango Lassi
• Price: Average 400–600 MXN per person
• Timings: Monday to Saturday 1:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Sunday 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Official Website: Tandoor
• Social Media: @restaurantetandoor
• Suitable For: Families, business lunches, group celebrations, vegetarians

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14. Alas Blancas

Alas Blancas is a charming beachfront restaurant in Sayulita offering fresh seafood and Mexican specialties in a relaxed setting right on the sand. With toes-in-the-sand dining and beautiful ocean views, this restaurant provides an authentic Mexican beach experience with quality cuisine.

• Google Rating: 4.4
• Location: Delfines 219, 63734 Sayulita, Nay., Mexico
• Theme: Mexican Seafood
• Must-Try Dish: Grilled Fish Zarandeado-Style, Coconut Shrimp, Aguachile, Fresh Fish Tacos
• Price: Average 350 MXN per person
• Timings: Monday-Sunday 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Official Website: Alas Blancas
• Social Media: @alasblancas_sayulita
• Suitable For: Beach lovers, seafood enthusiasts, casual dining

15. Barracuda

Barracuda offers one of the best beachfront dining experiences in Sayulita, with tables set directly on the sand and a menu focused on fresh, locally caught seafood. The restaurant’s laid-back atmosphere and stunning sunset views create a perfect setting for enjoying coastal Mexican cuisine.

• Google Rating: 4.5
• Location: C. Gaviota 145, 63734 Sayulita, Nay., Mexico
• Theme: Beachfront Seafood
• Must-Try Dish: Seafood Tostadas, Grilled Fish Tacos, Ceviche, Micheladas
• Price: Average 300 MXN per person
• Timings: Monday-Sunday 11:30 AM – 6:30 PM
• Official Website: No official website
• Social Media:@barracudasayulita
• Suitable For: Beach day dining, sunset cocktails, seafood lovers

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16. Saffron at Banyan Tree

Saffron at Banyan Tree offers refined Thai cuisine in an elegant beachfront setting in Playa del Carmen. This luxury restaurant in Mexico combines authentic Thai flavors with fresh local ingredients, served against the backdrop of the turquoise Caribbean Sea for a truly memorable dining experience.

• Google Rating: 4.3
• Location: Cerrada SN Lote 1 Col, Punta Diamante, 39907 Acapulco de Juárez, Gro., Mexico
• Theme: Luxury Thai Cuisine
• Must-Try Dish: Tom Yum Soup, Pad Thai, Green Curry, Thai-Inspired Seafood Specialties
• Price: Average 1,200 MXN per person
• Timings: Daily 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• Official Website: Saffron
• Social Media:@banyantreemayakoba
• Suitable For: Special occasions, romantic dinners, fine dining enthusiasts

17. La Capital

La Capital is a contemporary Mexican restaurant located in the heart of Condesa, Mexico City. Known for its modern interpretations of traditional Mexican dishes, the restaurant offers a chic yet comfortable atmosphere with stylish decor and a lively ambiance. 

• Google Rating: 4.6
• Location: Av. Nuevo León 137, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc, 06100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
• Theme: Modern Mexican Cuisine
• Must-Try Dish: Short Rib with Mole Negro, Tuna Tostada, Duck Tacos, Mezcal Cocktails
• Price: Average 500 to 700 MXN per person
• Timings: Monday – Saturday 1:30 PM – 12:00 AM, Sunday 1:30 PM – 6:30 PM
• Official Website: La Capital
• Social Media: @lacapitalmxclt
• Suitable For: Groups, romantic dinners, business meetings, food enthusiasts

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18. Blanco Colima

Blanco Colima is housed in a stunning restored mansion in Roma Norte, offering a multi-concept dining experience with various rooms and ambiances. This romantic restaurant in Mexico City serves contemporary Mexican cuisine with international influences in an elegant, art-filled space perfect for special occasions.

• Google Rating: 4.5
• Location: Colima 168, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
• Theme: Contemporary Mexican in Historic Mansion
• Must-Try Dish: Duck in Mole Sauce, Fresh Seafood, Artisanal Cocktails
• Price: Average 800 MXN per person
• Timings: Monday-Wednesday 1:30 PM – 1:00 AM, Thursday-Saturday 1:00 PM – 1:00 AM, Sunday 1:00 PM – 9:30 PM
• Official Website: Blanco Colima
• Social Media: @blanco_colima
• Suitable For: Date nights, special occasions, cocktail enthusiasts

19. Contramar

Contramar is one of the most famous restaurants in Mexico City for seafood, known for its vibrant atmosphere and fresh coastal cuisine. This institution, opened by Gabriela Cámara in 1998, serves a menu focused on sustainably sourced seafood in a lively setting that’s especially popular for long weekend lunches.

• Google Rating: 4.5
• Location: Durango 200, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
• Theme: Mexican Seafood
• Must-Try Dish: Tuna Tostadas, Pescado a la Talla (Grilled Fish), Fresh Oysters, Contramar’s Famous Fig Tart
• Price: Average 700 MXN per person
• Timings: Monday- Friday 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Saturday and Sunday 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Official Website:Contramar
• Social Media:@contramar_mx
• Suitable For: Seafood lovers, business lunches, social gatherings

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20. Nido

Nido at the Viceroy Punta Mita offers an extraordinary beachfront dining experience in a stunning nest-like structure perched above the Pacific Ocean. This luxury restaurant combines innovative cuisine with breathtaking design and ocean views for one of Mexico’s most unique and romantic dining settings.

• Google Rating: 4.7
• Location: Lote H-4 Carretera Federal 200, Km 19.5, 63734 Corral del Risco, Nay., Mexico
• Theme: Contemporary Mexican with Asian Influences
• Must-Try Dish: Sushi and Sashimi, Seafood Platters, Innovative Ceviche Variations
• Price: Average 1,500 MXN per person
• Timings: Daily 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Official Website: Nido
• Social Media: @nido.mexico
• Suitable For: Romantic dinners, special celebrations, luxury dining experiences

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FAQs

What is the most popular food in Mexico?

The most popular foods in Mexico include tacos, enchiladas, chiles rellenos, and mole. According to the Mexican Secretary of Tourism, tacos are consumed at a rate of over 1 billion annually in Mexico City alone. Regional specialties vary widely, from Yucatecan cochinita pibil to Oaxacan tlayudas and Puebla’s mole poblano.

How much will a meal cost in Mexico?

Meal costs in Mexico vary significantly. At affordable restaurants in Mexico like taquerias or market stalls, expect to pay 100-250 MXN (5-12 USD) per person. Mid-range restaurants typically charge 300-700 MXN (15-35 USD) per person, while luxury restaurants in Mexico can cost 1,000-3,000+ MXN (50-150+ USD) per person. 

What is Mexico’s main food?

Corn (maíz) is Mexico’s foundational ingredient, consumed primarily as tortillas, which accompany nearly every meal. The Mexican diet traditionally centers around a combination of corn, beans, and chiles, supplemented with regional proteins and vegetables. 

What are the best restaurants near Mexico City landmarks?

If you are near Chapultepec Park, try Rosetta or Pujol in Polanco. Near the Zócalo (main square), Balcón del Zócalo offers cathedral views, while El Cardenal serves traditional breakfast. In Coyoacán near Frida Kahlo Museum, visit Los Danzantes or Corazón de Maguey. 

What is the famous Mexican sweet dish?

Famous Mexican sweet dishes include churros with chocolate sauce (especially from El Moro), flan (caramel custard), tres leches cake (three-milk cake), and pan de muerto (Day of the Dead bread). Regional specialties like Oaxacan chocolate, cajeta (goat’s milk caramel), and candied pumpkin are also popular. 

How much food is in a restaurant in Mexico?

Mexican restaurant portions tend to be generous, particularly at traditional establishments. Many restaurants serve family-style meals, especially for dishes like molcajetes (stone bowls with mixed meats). Fine dining restaurants typically offer more controlled portions with multiple courses. 

How many types of restaurants are there?

Mexico features diverse restaurant types, from high-end establishments to casual venues. These include: fondas (small family restaurants serving home-style meals), taquerías (taco specialists), marisquerías (seafood restaurants), mezcalerías (mezcal bars with food), cantinas (traditional drinking establishments).

What city has the most restaurants in Mexico?

Mexico City has the highest concentration of restaurants in Mexico, with over 50,000 food establishments according to the National Chamber of Restaurants and Seasoned Food Industry. This includes everything from street food vendors to world-class dining.